enterically

Enterically refers to something related to, occurring in, or affecting the intestines. The term is derived from the word "enteric," which itself comes from the Greek word "enteron," meaning intestine. In a biological or medical context, "enterically" is often used to describe processes, conditions, or medications that relate to the small intestine. For example, enterically coated tablets are designed to pass through the stomach intact and dissolve in the more alkaline environment of the small intestine, releasing their medication there. This coating is used to protect the stomach from irritating drugs or to prevent the drug from being destroyed by stomach acid. Infections can also be described as enteric if they primarily affect the intestines, such as certain types of gastroenteritis. The study of the enteric nervous system, a complex network of neurons within the walls of the gastrointestinal tract, also uses this terminology. Therefore, when something is described as happening or being administered enterically, it signifies a direct involvement with the intestinal tract.